Interpretive Summary: A very important aspect of commercial production of kenaf is the selection of the kenaf variety. Kenaf yield components can be important parameters in selecting the variety best suited for specific uses and in maximizing the production and processing efficiency of a selected kenaf crop. The objective of this research was to determine the yield component differences samong sixteen kenaf varieties produced without irrigation in Southeast Oklahoma. A 3-yr study with sixteen kenaf varieties was conducted at Lane, OK, during the years 1994, 1995, and 1996. Stalk yields and stalk biomass percentages are based on oven-dry weights ("0%" moisture). Tainung #2 was the most consistent and best performing variety with stalk yields averaging 21.8 mt/ha/yr (9.7 t/a/yr). Two out three years, India had the lowest stalk yields, averaging only 10.9 mt/ha/yr (4.9 t/a/yr). The stalk biomass percentage, which is the percentage of stalk by weight on a whole plant basis, ranged from 84% (KK60, Guatemala 45, and India) to 91% (Everglades 41) averaged across 1994, 1995, and 1996. When averaged across varieties, stalk biomass percentages decreased as stalk yields increased. Everglades 41 continued the trend of earlier research by producing a greater than average stalk biomass percentage. Under similar growing conditions Tainung #2 would be the variety of choice for the greatest stalk yields.

Technical Abstract:
As the USA approaches commercial production of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) as an alternative fiber source for paper pulp and other uses, additional information is needed concerning differences in kenaf varieties. Kenaf yield components can be important parameters in selecting the variety best suited for specific uses, and in maximizing the production and processing efficiency of a selected kenaf crop. The objective of this research was to determine the yield component differences among sixteen kenaf varieties. A 3-yr study was conducted at Lane, OK, during 1994, 1995, and 1996. Kenaf varieties 'Cuba 108', 'Cuba 2032', 'Cubano', 'Everglades 41', 'Everglades 71', 'GR-2563', 'Guatemala 4', 'Guatemala 45', 'Guatemala 48', 'Guatemala 51', 'India', 'KK60', 'Tainung #1', 'Tainung #2', '78-18GS-3', and '78-18RS-10' were planted in 76 cm (30 inch) rows on a Bernow fine sandy loam, 0 to 3% slope, (fine-loamy, siliceous, thermic Glossic Paleudalf). Each year plots were arranged in a randomized complet block design with four replications. Plots were hand harvested after 186, 164, and 163 days of growth in 1994, 1995, and 1996, respectively. Stalk yields and biomass percentages are based on oven-dried weights. Everglades 41 had a 3-yr average stalk biomass percentage of 91%. Tainung #2 ranked first each year for stalk yields, with a 3-yr average of 21.8 mt/ha (9.7 t/a). India, in two out of three years, was the lowest ranking variety for stalk yields with a 3-yr year average yield of 10.9 mt/ha (4.9 t/a). Although the stalk yields for the sixteen varieties averaged 15.6 mt/ha (7.0 t/a) during the 3-yr study, the ranking among most of the varieties varied a great deal from year to year.